PreSchool Teacher

Job Description

A Preschool Teacher is a type of early childhood educator who instructs children from infancy to age 5 The term “preschool” refers to instruction in non-public arenas such as licensed preschools, childcare centers, family day care centers, home day care centers, center-based programs, federal programs like Head Start, and full or part-day private child centers/day care centers sponsored by religious bodies. These teachers nurture and care for children who have not yet entered formal schooling. Helping children grow, learn, and gain new skills can be very rewarding. Pre-School Teachers help to improve children’s communication, learning, and other personal skills.

Average Hourly Wage

$8.00

Job Requirements

The training and qualifications required of Pre-School Teachers vary widely. Each State has its own licensing requirements that regulate training; these range from a high school diploma to community college courses to a college degree in child development or early childhood education. Pre-School teachers generally can obtain some form of employment with a high school diploma and little or no experience, but certain private firms and publicly funded programs have more demanding training and education requirements.

Some employers prefer to hire child care workers who have earned a nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or the Certified Childcare Professional designation, have taken secondary or postsecondary courses in child development and early childhood education, or have work experience. Other employers require their own specialized training. An increasing number of employers require an associate degree in early childhood education.